Starter kit decision.

[Anonymous]

I am seeking a train to go around my Christmas tree that in the future could be used as a starter set for a garden layout. This will be primarily used around the tree but if I am going to spend the money I would like something that could be used for years to come with no trouble and possibly used in the garden. I would like to spend around the 250.00 dollar range. This will be the first time getting involved with a model train, I have always been intrigued and this could possibly spark a new hobby for me. Any information would be most helpful.[:)]

Thank you in advance!

[Anonymous]

superman180[#welcome], I don't carry the qualifications yet to answer but include if your more interested in diesel or steam power for a locomotive meaning what's your preference. A little more information will get alot more answers. Great buch of helpful people on this forum so sit back ask lots of questions and enjoy!


NOTE: This hobby is highly contagious![:D]

[Anonymous]

I like Steam locomotives, I really don't have to many requirements, I just want something that is going to be reliable and could be used in a more elaborate outside layout in the future. I have looked at some of the LGB & Bachmann starter sets and they both have kits I like, it seems that the LGB is a better quality for the money. Out of the all the manufactures what one has better quality for around 250.00 dollars?

Thanks in advance! [:D]

[Anonymous]

Well in terms of longgevity(spell?) LGB has the better motor from what I understand from my readings here in this forum. Bachmann's Spectrum line is of a better quality from my understanding. Aristocraft has a few sets that come with their Train Engineer that are very nice. I myself am in the market for a loco once the $ comes around, I plan on buying an LGB 260 mogul and build my set meaning seperate track, power source, rolling stock etc.
Are you looking locally or Mail order?
Look in Garden railroads magazine at the advertisers, they're always having a sale on this one or that one, changes monthly. My guess is you'll get more bang for your buck mail orderwise, unless you unlike me lives somewhat close to a well stocked shop that offers competive with mail order buisness.

[Anonymous]

I checked out the aristo craft starter set and I must say it look pretty good, I like the remote idea. Can anyone comment on there quality / reputation.

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

Hi superman180
[#welcome]
I am biased toward LGB so cannot really coment on the set.
I do have some Aristocraft track and it appears to be well made and has been out in my yard dealing with 40+ to aprox -3 temp range with no apparent trouble.
I also have 3 Aristocraft wagons and I do like the sprung axel boxes and metal wheels based on what I have, I await comment on the quality of Aristcraft locomotives with great interest
regards John

[Anonymous]

Sounds like an LGB starter set would fit the bill for you. LGB also stands behind their sturff. I have had good luck dealing with Trainworld. Here's the link for starter sets:

http://www.trainworld1.com/lgb/lgb_starter_sets.htm

Regards,
Bill C.South Jersey

[Anonymous]

[#welcome] Superman180
Aristocraft because of the scale, I like longer trains.
Transmitter and all is there, just about plug and play set.

Warining once I pluged my set in and ran it my 2 yr old cat had a fight with train and all! Think he was high on katnip[:D]

[vsmith]

Aristo and LGB make great sets for what you are thinking of. Both have a quality engine, durable cars and good outdoor quality brass track and a good starter 1 amp powerpack. It honestly boils down to which engines and cars you like more, go with that appeals to you most.

[Anonymous]

Thanks to all of you for the advive, I like the looks of the Aristo-craft loco better. I guess that will be the deciding factor for me. I look foward on getting started on a garden layout in the future. I am sure I'll have lots of questions so bare with me.

Thank you!!